Richard Thomas is expected to give his State of the City address

MOUNT VERNON — Mayor Richard Thomas was arraigned on multiple felony charges on March 12, and people are calling the controversy a distraction.

Editorials from the Journal News are calling for his resignation, but Thomas says he plans to continue his role as mayor. He is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from his campaign accounts and lying on campaign finance reports.

Supporters of the Mount Vernon mayor say this is a personal attack against him.

“I feel like he's being used as a scapegoat,” said Mount Vernon resident Donna Marable.

Mayor Thomas is still moving forward with his State of the City address.